Atmore, AL – A routine traffic stop in Atmore, Alabama, led to a drug arrest after officers discovered methamphetamine, syringes, and other narcotics-related items in a vehicle driven by Kevin Lonnie Case, according to a statement from the Atmore Police Department (APD).
The Incident: Routine Stop Turns Into Drug Arrest
Authorities said the incident began when Atmore police officers conducted a traffic stop for an illegal window tint violation. Rather than stopping immediately, Case allegedly rolled to a slow stop at the end of a dead-end street, raising officers’ suspicions.
When officers asked for permission to search the vehicle, Case reportedly refused consent, prompting them to deploy K9 Bama, a certified narcotics detection dog.
“K9 Bama alerted officers to the presence of illegal narcotics inside the vehicle,” the APD said in its news release.
The search that followed revealed several controlled substances and drug-related items hidden within the car.
Investigation and Evidence Recovered
Police said that during the search, officers located:
- Two grams of methamphetamine
- One morphine pill
- Four loaded and used syringes
- A digital scale
- Plastic baggies with drug residue
- Marijuana residue
Authorities said these findings indicated intent to use and possibly distribute narcotics. Officers took Case into custody at the scene without incident.
Charges Filed and Legal Proceedings
Following the discovery, Kevin Lonnie Case was charged with:
- Two counts of possession of a controlled substance
- One count of unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia
He was transported to the Escambia County Detention Center, where he awaits a court appearance.
The Atmore Police Department emphasized that the traffic stop and K9 alert were conducted according to proper procedures, and the evidence collected will be submitted to the district attorney’s office for prosecution.
Law Enforcement Response
The Atmore Police Department credited teamwork and the assistance of K9 Bama for the successful arrest.
“This case demonstrates the importance of proactive patrol and our department’s commitment to removing dangerous drugs from our streets,” an APD spokesperson said.
Officials added that narcotics enforcement remains a top priority, particularly given recent increases in methamphetamine and opioid-related arrests across southern Alabama.
Background Context: Ongoing Drug Enforcement in Atmore
Atmore authorities have intensified their efforts to curb drug trafficking and possession within the city limits. Recent months have seen multiple arrests tied to illegal narcotics, with K9 units playing a critical role in detecting drugs during traffic stops.
Police officials said they will continue using K9-assisted patrols and targeted enforcement to prevent narcotics from entering the community.
Ongoing Developments and Next Steps
As the investigation continues, additional charges could be filed depending on lab analysis of the substances seized. Police say the vehicle and its contents are being held as part of ongoing evidence collection.
Authorities also reminded the public that anyone with information about drug activity can contact the Atmore Police Department’s tip line anonymously.
Conclusion
The Atmore Police Department’s swift action and effective use of K9 Bama led to the arrest of Kevin Lonnie Case and the removal of dangerous narcotics from the community. The case highlights the department’s ongoing efforts to combat illegal drug activity across Escambia County.
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